Sonny Styles was an absolute no-brainer for the Washington Commanders when he fell to No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. The choice has received widespread praise, and one of head coach Dan Quinn's former players doesn't believe there is a better fit for the Ohio State product.
Styles was always high on Washington's shortlist. They spoke more about him than any other prospect during the assessment phase. His on-field ability, exceptional athleticism, supreme leadership, and communication left the Commanders in no doubt.
General manager Adam Peters didn't believe the Commanders had much chance of landing Styles, who was widely projected to go in the top five. As it turned out, they got extremely lucky.
Micah Parsons had high praise for Commanders drafting Sonny Styles at No. 7
Micah Parsons thrived under Quinn's guidance with the Dallas Cowboys, emerging from a promising first-round prospect to an All-Pro game-wrecker. The former Penn State star, who now plays for the Green Bay Packers, believes this is the perfect athlete for his old coach to mold, and he'll be watching Styles' progress closely next season and beyond.
"Sonny [Styles] just makes the most sense with this pick with Dan Quinn. They've had Bobby Wagner over the last couple of years, but they needed somebody fast. With the division they're in, with Saquon [Barkley]. I think he can develop into a serious linebacker.
"How is Dan Quinn going to use him? Is he going to be more of a cover guy? Is he going to be more downhill? They've got [Frankie] Luvu, too, so Luvu and him are going to be a great tandem. It's going to be very interesting to see how this guy pans out."
Parsons knows better than almost anyone what Quinn can do to bring out the best in his players. Styles was reportedly his guy, which was a sentiment echoed across the franchise. There is a mix of the old-school and the new era with the incoming rookie, and the coach is probably salivating at the prospect of getting to work.
Bobby Wagner's presence will be missed. His leadership was never in question, but his powers were waning. The Commanders now have a long-term replacement in Styles — a legitimate three-level threat capable of impacting the game in all phases. The player also believes he is merely scratching the surface of what he's capable of, and Quinn could be the man to unlock his true potential.
While Parsons wondered whether Styles would be utilized, it doesn't really matter. He can do it all. His versatility and athleticism are among his biggest strengths. And don't let the quiet persona fool you; this is a stone-cold performer on the field, with a ruthless mindset that will make him a fan favorite in no time.
Placing him with Quinn is a match made in heaven, and the Commanders stand to benefit greatly.
Add us as a preferred source on Google